Types of Obesity: A Complete Guide 

Dr.Nikhil Agnihotri, 3 mins read

Obesity is gradually becoming a common problem, with a significant proportion of the population suffering from it. It’s important to understand that it is not just a cosmetic concern but a grave medical issue as well. 

Excess weight can increase your risk of developing cardiovascular disease, fatty liver disease, gallstones, kidney disease, depression, infertility, memory problems, certain cancers, diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, joint pain, etc. 

Therefore, you should take the right steps for weight management at the right time. The steps you should take depend on the type of obesity you have. 

What Is Obesity?

Obesity refers to excess body fat. It is a chronic and, most importantly, a serious problem that can make you prone to other health conditions. There are various ways to identify whether you are obese. One of them is BMI (Body mass index).

Body mass index is evaluated by dividing weight (In Kg) by the square of height (In meters). 

BMI = Weight (Kg)/ Height2 (Meters)

The result of the BMI tells whether you are underweight, normal, overweight, or obese. 

If the result is:

• Less than 16 Kg/m2: Severe thinness
• 16 - 17 Kg/m2: Moderate thinness
• 17 - 18.5 Kg/m2: Mild thinness
• 18.5 - 25 Kg/m2: Normal 
• 25 - 30 Kg/m2: Overweight 
• 30 - 35 Kg/m2: Class 1 Obesity
• 35 - 40 Kg/m2: Class 2 Obesity 
• More than 40 Kg/m2: Class 3 obesity

Types of Obesity Based on BMI

• Class 1 obesity:  BMI between 30 - 35 Kg/m2
• Class 2 obesity: BMI between 35 - 40 Kg/m2
• Class 3 obesity: BMI of more than 40 Kg/m2 (Morbid or severe obesity)

Types of Obesity Based on Fat Distribution

• Peripheral obesity: Excess fat accumulation in the hips, thighs, and buttocks.
• Central obesity: Excess fat buildup around the abdomen. 
• Combination obesity: It includes both peripheral and central obesity.

Types of Obesity Based on Causes

Type 1

This type of obesity usually happens due to an excess intake of calories and a lack of physical activity.

Type 2

This type of obesity occurs due to other diseases like:

• Hypothyroidism (Underactive thyroid): It means the thyroid is unable to produce enough thyroid hormones to meet the body’s needs.
• Cushing's syndrome: This happens when the body produces too many cortisol hormones over time. Cortisol helps the body to respond to stress. 
• Polycystic ovary syndrome: In this condition, many fluid-filled small sacs develop along the edge of the ovary.  
• Insulinoma: A rare tumor in the pancreas that causes too much insulin production.  

Types of Obesity Based on Number and Size of Fat Cells

• Hypertrophic: Increase in size of fat cells. This usually happens in adults.
• Hyperplastic: Increase in number of fat cells. This usually happens in children.

Address Your Obesity

As obesity is a risk factor for many serious health conditions, it is important to get it treated as soon as possible. Bariatric surgery is an effective, safe, sustainable, and proven solution for those affected with severe or morbid obesity. 

At Aakash Healthcare, we have state-of-the-art infrastructure and world-renowned weight loss experts who will help you in your weight loss journey.

Also Read: 10 Homemade Drinks to Boost Metabolism and Lose Weight